Carlos Alcaraz says it is “a shame” that Rafael Nadal is out of the Rome Masters and missing clay tournaments.
After missing Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid, Nadal also pulled out of the upcoming Rome Masters.
Nadal has yet to play on clay this year and there is a growing fear that the record 14-time French Open might be forced to skip Roland Garros this year.Ā
Alcaraz, who grew up idolizing Nadal, is rooting for his idol to compete at Roland Garros and be “at 100% percent.”
“It’s a shame to see Rafa skip tournaments and the clay tour, which is the most special for him. Health comes first and if he has decided not to go to Rome, he will have seen that he is not ready. I hope to see him at Roland Garros at 100 percent. The world wants to see him at 100 percent,” Alcaraz said, per Tennis-Infinity.
Alcaraz would like to play Nadal at the French Open
Nadal’s record of 14 French Open titles is one of the most astonishing feats in all sports.
Alcaraz, who is considered someone who could leave a major mark in tennis history, is hoping to get a chance to play Nadal at Roland Garros.
Playing Nadal at Roland Garros is widely considered one of the most difficult tasks in tennis.
“I have always said that I like to play against the best and Nadal is one of the best in history, there is no doubt about it. His tournament is Roland Garros, he has more titles, but this is the most symbolic for him. I would love to play him at Roland Garros, measure myself against him, and see what happens. I think I could beat him, but Rafa has a thousand lives there,” Alcaraz said.
It remains to be seen if Nadal will be able to compete at the French Open and if Alcaraz will get his wish fulfilled.